Free 18V LXT Lithium-Ion 3-Speed Impact Driver

Makita has recently rolled out a free-tool mail-in rebate offer that seems pretty good to pass. Basically you’ll get a free bare (battery and charger not included) BTD144Z – 18V LXT Lithium-Ion 3-Speed Impact Driver when you buy one of the following Makita 18V LXT Lithium-Ion tool kits:

• BCS550 – 5-3/8″ Metal Cutting Saw Kit
• BHR240 – 7/8″ SDS-PLUS Rotary Hammer Kit
• BTW450 – 1/2″ High Torque Impact Wrench Kit
• BPB180 – Portable Band Saw Kit
• BDA350 – 3/8″ Angle Drill Kit

However, you’ll have to fill out and send a redemption form before you can receive your free tool. The rebate form can be downloaded here. This offer is valid till December 31, 2009.

So you want to know if the free impact driver is any good? Well, this 18V LXT cordless Impact Driver was launched earlier this year and it features a three speed brush-less motor, which is pretty cool.

One of the advantages of a brush-less motor is efficiency and because the motor is more efficient, it provides up to 20% longer run time on a battery.  The three-speed feature is also pretty neat since now you can match the speed of your drill to the application. The low speed 0-1,300 rpm and IPM is great for smaller screws in woodworking like hinge screws. The mid speed 0-2,000 rpm and 0-2,800 IPM is great for drywall screws or other mid range applications. The high speed is 0-2,600 rpm and 0-3,400 IPM puts out 1,420 in. lbs. of max torque which makes it great for heavy applications such as lag bolts.

The overall length of this driver is only 5-1/2” and weighs 3.3 lbs. with the battery.  The bit shank is 1/4″ hex.  This tool is also available as a kit BTD144 which comes with a fast charger (that only takes 30 minutes to charge tool), 2 LXT batteries and a tool case.